Bird owners should be aware that although their pets might be highly intelligent and fun companions, they can sometimes carry germs that can make people sick. Although rare, germs from birds can cause a variety of illnesses in people, ranging from minor skin infections to serious illnesses.
Can I get sick from touching a bird?
Salmonella can spread between species of birds, to pets, and to people. CDC will provide more information as it becomes available. You can get sick from touching a wild bird or something in its environment, such as a bird feeder or bird bath, and then touching your mouth or face with unwashed hands.
Can you get a disease from holding a bird?
Psittacosis (also known as ornithosis) is a disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, carried by birds. Humans most commonly catch the disease by inhaling dust containing feathers, secretions and droppings from infected birds.
Is it safe to handle a bird?
Stress from excessive handling and noise can kill a bird. Please do not pet an injured bird, sing to it, let your children play with it, or let your dog sniff it. Just get it to a rehabber as quickly and as quietly as possible.
What diseases can birds pass to humans?
Avian Diseases Transmissible to HumansIntroduction. ... Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) ... Chlamydiosis. ... Salmonellosis. ... Colibacillosis. ... Encephalitis Viruses. ... Avian Tuberculosis. ... Newcastle Disease.
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